Community Developments – Our Stories
The Outreach Blog
The Outreach blog shows you that every day around the world, Outreach’s community partners are working together to reach their goals and forge a sustainable path out of chronic poverty.
Featured Story
Reflecting on 2025: A Letter from the CEO
Outreach CEO Elene Cloete reflects on 2025 community impact and shares Strategy 2030 goals for clean water, sanitation, and ending global poverty.
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Reflecting on 2025: A Letter from the CEO
Outreach CEO Elene Cloete reflects on 2025 community impact and shares Strategy 2030 goals for clean water, sanitation, and ending global poverty.
Latest Posts:
Sometimes signing up for a mailing list is a good idea, especially to read great stories. This is one of those times.
All Outreach Blog Stories
Reflecting on 2025: A Letter from the CEO
Outreach CEO Elene Cloete reflects on 2025 community impact and shares Strategy 2030 goals for clean water, sanitation, and ending global poverty.
A Makahiya Plant No More: Rizalyn’s Story
See how community-led development helped Rizalyn build confidence, become a community leader, and imagine new possibilities in the Philippines.
Lighting the Way Forward: Brundavati’s Story of Change
After helping her community secure solar streetlights through Community-Led Development, Brundavati discovered that the greatest change wasn't brighter roads—it was the confidence to help shape her village's future.
Water Walkers: From Class Project to Clean Water
Four 5th graders turned a global water scarcity project into a school-wide Walk for Water.
How Climate Change Affects Agriculture and Local Communities
Using sustainable farming to protect food security against climate change.
Dignity at Her Doorstep: Bhagyabati’s Story of Change
A widow and mother of three, Bhagyabati spent years waiting in line for water. Discover how community-led development helped change everything.
Outreach International and SCD Probiotics: Collaboration for Better Sanitation
Outreach International, SCD Probiotics, and Dr. Musa Manga are exploring innovative, community-led solutions to sanitation challenges in the Philippines.
Community-Led Action is Redefining Menstrual Health Management
Discover how Outreach International is using community-led development to improve menstrual health management.
Growing Marigolds: Rashmi’s Journey to Harvesting Hope
Rashmi’s journey in Bhujabala shows how access to affordable loans inspires change for women, families, and communities.
A Reflection from Cambodia: Witnessing the Power of Community-Led Development
After a recent field visit to Cambodia, an Outreach staff member reflects on community-led development, ownership, and the restoration of dignity.
Building a Greener Future: The Impact of Green Technology on Communities
Discover how green technology is transforming communities through innovative solutions, from solar power to sustainable agriculture.
Understanding Poverty in Bolivia: Challenges & Solutions
While the economy in Bolivia has grown through natural resource exports and public investment, those advancements have not reached everyone equally. In 2023, according to the World Bank, 36.5% of Bolivia’s population lived in [...]
Is Water a Human Right?
Is water a human right? Explore the legal recognition of clean water and sanitation, the global crisis affecting billions, and how community-led solutions are turning rights into reality.
Community-Led Development Solutions: A Crab Hatchery in the Philippines
In a small coastal village in the Philippines, local leaders partnered with Outreach International to design a community-led crab hatchery—a solution rooted in their own knowledge, culture, and determination.
2025 Visit to Bolivia: Reflections from Outreach International’s Global Program Manager
After a recent field visit to Bolivia, Outreach International’s Global Program Manager reflects on community leadership, resilience, and lasting change.
What Is a Community Based Organization?
Learn what a community based organization is, their impact, and why they’re vital for building sustainable and inclusive communities.
2025 CEO Video Series: Partnerships
In this final episode of our 2025 livestream series, Outreach International CEO Elene Cloete explains how community-led development succeeds through discovering and nurturing partnerships.
2025 CEO Video Series: Sustainability
In this episode of our 2025 livestream series, Outreach International CEO Elene Cloete explains how community-led development succeeds through sustainability.
2025 CEO Video Series: Leadership
In this episode of our 2025 livestream series, Outreach International CEO Elene Cloete brings to light a central focus of our communiy-led development work: local, grassroots leadership.
Vision for Outreach International with CEO, Elene Cloete
Join CEO Elene Cloete as she shares her vision for Outreach International and the future of community-led development in our new livestream series.
The Courage to Learn – Maili’s Story
At 73 years old, Maili courageously begins her journey of learning how to read and write for the very first time.
The Power of Individual Giving
At Outreach International, the continued support of our donors lays the foundation for every step we take, every voice we amplify, and every opportunity we help create.
Builders of Change: Outreach International Partners with Luna & Lark Apothecary
Outreach International and Luna & Lark unite to empower women globally, turning daily wellness rituals into meaningful impact and lasting change.
2024 Annual Report Letter from Interim CEO Scott Murphy
Read the letter from Scott Murphy as he introduces the Outreach International 2024 Annual Report and sheds light on why Outreach’s work is so meaningful to him.
Loan to Leadership: Pratima’s Journey of Determination
In rural Nepal, Pratima shows how affordable loans empower women to grow businesses, lead, and transform communities.
Poverty Reduction Strategies in Developing Countries
Learn about poverty reduction strategies in developing countries. Discover how Outreach International empowers families through community-led development to break the cycle of poverty.
Menstrual Health Management: Empowering Girls in Malawi
Outreach Malawi empowers girls through menstrual health education—breaking stigma, building confidence, and strengthening communities.
Luna & Lark Apothecary Brings Clean Beauty to the Crossroads
Discover the Luna & Lark/Outreach International partnership — A portion of a self-care item purchase helps communities overcome poverty worldwide.
Make a Will, Make a Difference: Your Legacy Can Change Lives
Make a Will, make a difference. Leave a legacy that empowers communities worldwide through simple, meaningful planned giving with Outreach International.
Outreach International Announces Dr. Elene Cloete As New President & CEO
Outreach International is excited to announce Elene Cloete as its President and Chief Executive Officer.
A Place to Call Home: Outreach Helped Nilai Build a Home of Safety and Dignity
Nilai’s path to building a safe home highlights how community-led development creates lasting dignity and opportunity in rural Bhujabala, India.
Fueled by Food, Driven by Dreams: Haiti Primary School Program
Meet the students of the Haiti Primary School Program, where nourishing school meals and educational support are creating opportunities for a better future.
How Does Water Scarcity Affect Food Security?
Discover how water scarcity impacts global food security, agriculture, and rural livelihoods, and explore sustainable solutions to address these challenges.
Krishna Maya – A Woman Who Found Her Voice
Krishna Maya’s journey from homemaker to community organization treasurer shows how women’s participation supports lasting community development in Farsidol, Nepal.
A Clinic in Msoko: A Community Earned Access to Healthcare
A record-breaking community effort in Msoko, Malawi leads to a new health clinic, full-time healthcare, and lasting hope for local families.
Development Is Sprouting: Community Graduations in Nicaragua
Two communities in Nicaragua graduated from the Outreach program. See how sustainable solutions, local leadership, and shared knowledge are transforming lives—and spreading.
Outreach International Leadership Transition: Dr. John Herron Steps Down
Outreach International announces that President & CEO Dr. John Herron will step down from his role on Friday, May 9, 2025.
How Do Humans Affect Water Quality?
Discover how human activities impact water quality worldwide. Learn the causes, effects, and solutions to protect clean water for future generations.
Growing Hope, One Sapling at a Time: Malawi Banana Tree Project
Community-led banana farming in Malawi brings food security, income potential, and hope—one sapling, one family, one future at a time.
Kistoma’s Story: A Home Transformed
Kistoma’s village of Kurumpeta, India, came together to create sustainable housing that transformed their community.
The Impact of Water Scarcity in the World
Explore the global impacts of water scarcity in the world and discover how it shapes health, politics, and communities worldwide.
Unlocking Opportunities: Women’s Literacy Class in Nepal
Women in Farsidol, Nepal, take literacy classes to expand their opportunities for themselves and their community.
Sasmita’s Story: How Clean Water Transformed Her Life
A woman's journey from fetching dangerous, unclean water to a transformed community with safe water and sanitation, improving lives in Kurumpeta, India.
Building a Future, One Brick at a Time: Minarao’s Story
In Khambesu village, India, 25-year-old Minarao works with his father, making bricks by hand, to build a safe and sturdy home for his family.
Global Water Crisis: Causes, Effects, and Community-Led Solutions
Learn about the causes, effects, and solutions to the global water crisis and how we are helping communities gain access to clean water worldwide.
Rural Healthcare Disparities: Sanitation Solutions
Explore health and sanitation challenges in rural areas and discover community-led solutions improving water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Bolivia in 2024: Addressing Poverty with Community-Led Action
This is how Outreach Bolivia field locations have made great progress towards addressing their cycle of poverty through community-led development.
World Toilet Day: Facts About Toilets & Their Importance in The Global Sanitation Crisis
Explore the significance of World Toilet Day and learn how global sanitation solutions are improving health and dignity for millions.
Malnutrition in India: Challenges and Community-Led Solutions
Learn about the causes and consequences of malnutrition in India and discover how community-led development by Outreach International is making a sustainable impact in the fight against hunger.
The Digital Divide in Education: Bridging the Gap for Equal Learning Opportunities
Learn how to reduce the digital divide in education with strategies and support from Outreach International’s initiatives in underserved communities.
Clean Water and Sanitation: Our Strategies and Community-Led Solutions
Discover how Outreach International provides clean water and sanitation in Nepal, Nicaragua, and beyond through community-led solutions.
Five Digital Savings Groups in Cambodia
Increasing financial freedom in rural Cambodia communities with the use of digital savings groups.
2024 Cambodia Community Graduations
Outreach International works in Cambodia, empowering people to lift themselves out of poverty. When communities can continue their work independently, they reach the amazing milestone of graduation.
Literacy India: Geeta’s Success Story
A woman from Bhujabala, India who transformed her family’s future with fabric and a sewing machine.
Empowering Change: Tackling Gender Inequality in Education Globally
Gender inequality in education remains an issue that affects societies all over the world. But when cultures embrace the intellectual and professional power of women and girls, entire societies benefit in significant, measurable ways.
Bolivia Greenhouses Project: 2024 Update
Outreach International’s partners in Bolivia helped communities build greenhouses to grow higher quality vegetables to bring better nutrition and income to children and families.
Poverty in India: Real-Life Consequences & Sustainable Solutions
Explore the multifaceted issue of poverty in India: its causes, current status, and how to contribute to sustainable change.
Poverty in Nepal: Causes, Effects, and Trends for the Upcoming Years
Discover how Outreach International's projects are alleviating poverty in Nepal, exploring causes, effects, and future solutions.
5 Questions: Meet Dr. John Herron
Dr. John Herron joined Outreach International as its president & CEO.
A Community Illuminated: Solar Streetlights in Lelibadi, India
60-year-old Singu and his community-led organization in Lelibadi, India, used Outreach’s methodology of participatory human development to brighten their future.
Sanitation Microloans to Improve In-Home Sanitation
To address the financial barrier to sanitation access, organizations have started offering households sanitation microloans to finance solutions.
Global Poverty: Causes, Issues & Solutions
Explore the causes and solutions of global poverty with key statistics and insights. Learn how initiatives are tackling this worldwide issue.
Outreach International Announces Dr. John Herron as President and CEO
Outreach International is excited to announce experienced nonprofit leader Dr. John Herron as its president and chief executive officer.
Child Poverty in the World: Global Trends, Consequences, and Strategies for Change
Learn about the causes of child poverty and how we can unite to eradicate this harsh reality worldwide.
15+ Gifts That Give Back in Donations to Charity
Explore unique Christmas gifts that make a difference. Our curated list of gifts offers a great opportunity to give back this holiday season.
Disability Inclusion in Community-Led Development
Disability inclusion in community-led development means that everyone is empowered to be a part of the solution to their own poverty-related issues.
Supplies Help Children in Schools in the Philippines
In three communities in the Philippines, projects that brought school supplies to children help them make the most out of their education so they can build a better foundation for a prosperous future.
Poverty in Africa: Real-Life Consequences & Sustainable Solutions
Explore the complexities of poverty in Africa, from historical roots to modern challenges, and discover innovative community-driven solutions.
Closing the Digital Divide: Bringing Technology to Low-Income Communities
Some communities in low-income countries lack the digital infrastructure that has become foundational for development. But many are learning to bridge this digital divide.
The State of Poverty in the Philippines: What Are the Causes?
Explore the causes and impacts of poverty in the Philippines and learn how you can help. Join us in making a difference.
Zambia Water Crisis: Communities Finding Clean Water Solutions
Learn about the water crisis in Zambia and how Outreach International is helping communities find clean and sustainable water solutions.
Elizabeth’s Service Above Self Award
Elizabeth is a high school graduate from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who won the Service Above Self Award for working so hard to make the world a better place.
Outreach International Earns a 4-Star Charity Navigator Rating
Outreach International receives top honors with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator! We’re proud to be recognized for our impact and financial transparency.
Dr. Kevin Prine Resignation from Outreach International
Dr. Kevin Prine has resigned from his role as President & CEO for Outreach International and will step in as CEO for the Patterson Family Foundation in Kansas City.
What Is the Cycle of Poverty?
Breaking the cycle of poverty is crucial for economic and social development. Learn about the causes and effects of the poverty cycle globally.
What Is Poverty?
Poverty is a condition in which people don’t have enough money to pay for their basic needs, like food and shelter. Learn exactly what it is and what causes it.
World Conference 2023
Outreach International hosted an event celebrating courage with our partners at the Community of Christ World Conference 2023.
A New Children’s Clinic in Boyole
The people of Boyole, Malawi, Africa found the power within themselves to fight the trend of high child mortality rates by building a clinic to provide proper care.
Travel to Nicaragua in 2023
After a few years of restricted travel, the members of the Outreach U.S. team finally got to see the work they support up close and personal.
Eileen Humphrey
Eileen Humphrey was an Outreach International volunteer like no other. Read our short remembrance. We promise you’ll be inspired.
Remembering Karolyn Kyser
Long-time friend and donor Karolyn Kyser has given a lasting gift of kindness to Outreach International through our Legacy Circle program.
Solving the Global Sanitation Crisis
The global sanitation crisis may shock many readers, but the progress being made is impressive, and the people leading the way are inspiring.
Women’s Empowerment 2023
Outreach Celebrates Women’s Empowerment in 2023 and our women leaders all around the world.
What Is Community-Led Development?
Discover how community-led development empowers people to overcome poverty by creating their own lasting solutions. Learn how Outreach International works alongside local leaders to drive sustainable change.
Water Well Drilling | Cassidy’s Reflections
Our Senior Manager of Training and Support witnessed the inspiring gusher from a water well drilling project in Ofesi, Malawi.
5 Reasons to Love Outreach
Outreach International is a top-rated charity for so many reasons. Here’s just 5.
There Are Options to Solve The Problem: Nicaragua Sanitation Projects
Summary Outreach International delivers solutions to poverty by working with communities to awaken their strengths to overcome their struggles. This involves establishing a community-based organization, allowing natural leaders to step forward, and building community [...]
Youth Is Not Wasted On The Young: Community-led Sanitation And Youth In India
In India, 253 million people are age 10 to 19, making it the world’s biggest youth population. Because of this, development challenges ranging from employment shortages to limited or no access to healthcare affect [...]
Singari Pedenti: How Women’s Leadership is Transforming Rural Sanitation Practices
Singari (45) has lived in Kurumpeta, a rural community in Odisha, India, all her life. This is where she grew up, got married, raised her five children, and continues to work [...]
Program Partner Reflections
Our 2021 Annual Report includes reflections from our partners who do the work all over the world. We’re always inspired by their thoughts.
What is Community-Led Monitoring & Why is it Important?
Philippines and Cambodia create project evaluation surveys to improve future projects. The results are inspiring. The method is scientific, and it works.
Graduated Communities in 2021
Outreach International saw 27 graduated communities in 2021. Read how the best way to fight poverty is to empower those most affected by it.
From Our CEO: The Greatest Good
If you take a moment to read this note from our CEO, Kevin Prine, you’ll see how your donations help us to fight poverty all around the world.
Outreach Zambia’s PHD Process Creates a Nursery School in Mapande
A story of problem-solving and perseverance in Zambia. Years of hard work to give their children a school, and a more promising future.
Vegetable Seedling Distribution in Bolivia
Vegetable seedling distribution and greenhouse construction lead to nutrition and prosperity in central Bolivia.
Outreach Volunteer Network
The Council Bluffs, IA Community of Christ congregation, came through in spectacular fashion, fundraising for Outreach International.
Meet Bayardo
Years of steady effort and focus on helping others empowered Bayardo to grow his own prosperity, empowering himself and his family as he worked to empower those around him.
We Don’t Walk Alone: Partnership with Faith Groups
Thirty-three years ago, Outreach initiated a partnership program to provide faith communities, both large and small, with the opportunity to engage in philanthropy.
Founder and Friend Bill Higdon
“Bill will be remembered for his lifetime of service to others and his inclusive attitude toward all people.”
2021 Haiti Earthquake Updates
The 2021 Haiti earthquake has devastated the nation’s southern region, leaving many injured, homeless or without resources. You can help.
Outreach Event Space Party!
The Outreach Event Space threw a grand reopening party celebrating major renovations on August's First Friday in the Kansas City Crossroads District.
The Bright Spots: Outreach International 2020 Highlights
2020 was a difficult year around the globe. But, like so many, we rose to the challenge. Here are the Outreach International 2020 highlights.
A Solar Water System: Nandabadi Success
Residents of Nandabadi, India, celebrate the completion of a solar water system project that brings convenience and technological advancement.
Meet the 2021 Summer Interns
We’ve worked with some impressive interns, and these four are no exception. Meet Jenna, Ben, Rachael and Sarah, and prepare to be inspired!
Community-Led Collaboration
MCLD, or Movement for Community-Led Development, is a collaboration of over 70 member organizations all working together!
Q & A with the Outreach Interns 2021
We’re fortunate enough to work with so many talented individuals. Today we’re highlighting our Spring Interns! Meet Hunter and Nathan.
A Light of Hope | Nicaragua School Update
Parents, teachers, and community members in Nicaragua are banding together to revitalize a cornerstone of their community: their local school.
Earth Day Means the World to Us
Don’t just take our word for it — check out some of the ways we care for the planet while ALSO addressing poverty-related issues!
Ground-Breaking Work | Nepal Project Expansion
In December 2020, Human Development Facilitators (HDFs) from our program partner in Nepal began investigations to explore which communities they should expand their program work to next!
Pensions that Build Confidence | India Project Update
The government in India provides monthly pensions for all eligible widows, elders, and handicapped individuals; unfortunately, they are oftentimes difficult to access and sometimes the individuals that can apply for them don’t know that they exist.
Harvesting Change | Zambia Crop Yield
Treadle pumps yield more than crops for Oliver and community members in Kapisha, Zambia!
A Bright Idea: Solar Powered Street Lights
Community members collaborated, identified the issue, mobilized to solve it, and met with a resource agency to install solar powered street lights in the village.
New Kids on the Block | Malawi Goats Project
There is a new kind of litter patrol in Ofesi, Malawi. Residents in the community of Ofesi worked together to identify insufficient sources of income as a community issue. Ofesi’s solution? Goats.
Women Leaders | Meet Adelayda and Martha / Conoce a Adelayda Y Martha
As a part of our #womenwhowow series in celebration of International Women's Day, meet community-builders Adelayda and Martha from Nicaragua.
Medical Post | Health is Wealth Worth Striving For | Nicaragua Project Update
A new medical post is up and running in Coyolar, Nicaragua, thanks to the incredible persistence of the community Health Group!
Meet Clementina/Kumanyeni Clementina
As a part of our #womenwhowow series in celebration of International Women's Day, meet Clementina - an educator and fashionista from Zambia.
School’s Back in Session in Haiti | Haiti School
While many school teachers in Haiti went without pay for months during school closures, Outreach continued to support the dedicated teachers in our School Program.
A Development Rite of Passage | DR Congo
Three communities in DR Congo have reached an important milestone in their development story.
Meet Krishala / कृषलालाई भेट्नुहोस् !
As a part of our #womenwhowow series in celebration of International Women's Day, meet Krishala from Nepal!
Blossoming Growth | 2 New HDFs in Cambodia
In October 2020, our program partner team in Cambodia added two more Human-Development Facilitators (HDFs) to their team, Phonam and Tito.
Meet Liezl
As a part of our #womenwhowow series in celebration of International Women's Day, meet a renowned community leader from the Philippines.
Story Book Ending | Philippines Project Update
With the support of Outreach Philippines Incorporated (OPI) staff, two communities, gained access to more than 5,000 books from Philippines-based bookstores.
Irrigation Celebration | Bolivia Project Update
After 16 more months of preparation and fundraising, the APROAVA farmers received the first distribution of irrigation supplies in March 2020, including 68 fuel-powered water pumps (one for each family).
Malawi Mask Making
Here’s something extraordinarily cool: during Spring/Summer 2020 Outreach community members started mask-making en masse; keeping themselves and their neighbors safe (and stylish!).
(F)empowered
The numbers are in: Women are showing up to lead community development, worldwide.
Creating Oral Health Awareness in the Philippines
Did you know that February is Oral Health Awareness month? See how our community partners in the Philippines celebrated.
Internal Transformation | The Skills to Pay the Bills
One of the most beautiful and subtle components of Outreach’s work is the interior transformation found within communities taking an active role in addressing the issues they face.
Isolation Motivation
What’s easier than getting motivated? STAYING motivated! Outreach donors Brenda and Dan set up their very own 18-week “Isolation Motivation” program for a good cause!
UC Berkeley Engineers Without Borders Event
UC Berkeley Engineers Without Borders team hosted a virtual event featuring special guests, musical performances and a raffle to support communities in Nicaragua.
What’s an HDF?
What's an "HDF"? Short answer: "Human Development Facilitators"! For a slightly longer answer, check out this informative blog post!
“Why We Give” – Insights from Donors
What inspires Outreach donors to give? We asked, you answered -- turns out, there are lots of reasons to donate, and all of them are good.
Manuel in the Mirror
This recent reflection from a new member of La Leona, Nicaragua's community-led team is insight for sore eyes.
A Virtual Zoom-a-Thon!
Our friends at Shawnee Drive Community of Christ usually host a big, in-person luau each year. But this year, they hosted a virtual Zoom-A-Thon and still raised big bucks!
Tree Cheers for Reforestation in Bolivia
Community-led teams in Bolivia fill the ground with new life, and fill their horizons with new opportunities.
Plans Change, Hope Persists
Simple solutions for complicated times in every corner of the Outreach-iverse.
Meet the Guests of Outreach Connect!
Outreach Connect, our first-ever virtual gala, is right around the corner. Here are a few of the folks you'll meet during our big night.
Colburn Road Hosts Annual Chili Cook-Off
Colbern Road Community of Christ figured out a smart, safe way to host their well-loved annual chili cook-off Outreach fundraiser this year.
Good News Travels in Nicaragua
How one community in Nicaragua is empowering its neighbors while continuing to build momentum toward its own goals.
With Honors: Pupils Become Practitioners
What happens when a community becomes self-sustaining? Pomp, circumstance, empowerment, unity, and a big celebration, among other great things.
Malawi Hand-washing
Communities in Malawi complete their "Bucket List" to promote healthy habits and improve hygiene for all.
Mask-Makers | Maskimum Empowerment in Africa
Across Africa, communities are sewing masks and sowing empowerment. Learn how to generate both for yourself with our handy how-to chart!
Letter from the CEO: Ready for Good News?
Need a reason to feel hopeful? How about four of them?
Haiti Schools Feeding Programs Are Fulfilling
Plenty of mouths to feed, and even more smiles to share in Outreach's Haiti Schools Feeding Program.
Rice for Everyone in the Philippines
When is a meal more than just food? When it is part of a community-run rice-loan program, nourishing families, as well as teamwork!
Many Hands Make Light Work in DR Congo
How are communities in DR Congo reaching their goals? By being great at everything.
The Need to Meet: Community-Led Development & the Value of In-Person Meetings
Outreach's Elene Cloete explains how communities keep up their good work when the going gets tough. It's FASCINATING.
COVID Collaboration in Cambodia
Partners in Cambodia get together for community meetings, and gather strength for the work ahead.
Digging Up Treasure in Bolivia’s Greenhouses
Two years after building 22 greenhouses, a community in Bolivia celebrates new growth.
Safe Water Plus Partners with Nicaragua
Darrell Ward, president of Safe Water Plus, has made the most of his enthusiastic partnership with our program partners in Nicaragua.
Fields of Expertise | Irrigation in Ghodabadi
How does a community-led team in India irrigate their crops? They harness a few rivers, and go with the flow.
Veggie Tunnels in Nepal
Veggie tunnels generate all kinds of green in Nepal.
Father’s Day in the Philippines
How much can two dads do? Turns out, quite a bit.
Ceramic Water Filter
Let’s take a quick dip into another successful outcome achieved by our community partners… the water’s fine!
From the CEO: Hope Endures
When distance brings us closer together.
Clementina Empowers Others
How a team of empowered women in Zambia are ensuring everyone in their community faces COVID-19 while wearing a proper face-mask.
Zambia Community Center
After contributing a lot of collective brainpower, strategic planning and elbow grease, our community partners from Kayowelo, Zambia celebrated the grand opening of their brand-new community center!
Emergency Response to COVID-19: Community Updates
Updates on the work underway throughout Outreach-affiliated communities to combat the spread of COVID-19, and ensure the wellbeing of our partners.
The Solar Express | A Clean Water Source
Who knew the sun could be such a big help in bringing a reliable source of clean, safe water to a community? Partners from DR Congo, that's who.
Celebrating Augustin
Our friend Augustin, who worked as Outreach’s in-country representative in Haiti from 1994 until his recent passing, oversaw the effectiveness and efficiency of all the details of our work there.
Co-Habitation in Cambodia
Habitat for Humanity Cambodia and Outreach-affiliated community partners work together to turn houses into homes, and homes into habitats.
Thank U, Text – Adult Literacy in DR Congo
Women from DR Congo master the "three r's" of adult literacy: Reading, Writing and Revolution!
A Loan Together | Low-Interest Loans in Nicaragua
How residents in La Leona replaced high interest rates with greater regard for one another.
Something Real and True | Development in Zambia
Outreach Zambia community partner Benjamin reflects on his time as a teammate and development in to a local leader, and likes what he sees.
Meet Aurelia
Every day, Aurelia and her husband Norberto have one job: Support their family. It’s a humble goal made ambitious by the number of seats around their dinner table — seven children, and two sets of in-laws with no other sources of income.
Meet Chev
For the first few years of her life, Chev's family collected their supply of potable water from an uncovered, unfiltered communal well. The reliability of the water’s source was countered by the ongoing uncertainty of its safety.
Meet Kalima
First, Kalima found her voice, and then everyone began to listen.
Meet Antonio
When Antonio first began to attend Outreach-facilitated meetings in his community in the Philippines, he did so with an eye toward resolving his own personal problems.
Haiti School Reconstruction
What it takes, and what it means, to rebuild a school in Haiti.
Superflour in DR Congo Provides Nutrition
A mother puts food on her table, and the tables of children throughtout her community.
Clementina Threads the Needle
When it comes to inspirational stories from our communities, it is hard to find one more affecting than Clementina’s journey.
5 Ways to Fight Poverty
More than half the world lives on less than $2 a day. It's a startling truth that can sometimes make us feel helpless. Yet poverty can and must be fought.
Open House at Outreach Event Space!
Outreach International recently opened the brand new Outreach Event Space in the Crossroads of Kansas City with an open house party!
Empowered: Outreach’s Community Partners
Speaking em-truth to empowerment.
Global Hand Washing Day: Stories
Community partners in the Philippines harnessed funding from the successful partnership between Outreach and Dial from Global Handwashing Day 2016 to jumpstart a community-wide water system. We love it when a plan comes together.
Nicaragua’s Water Crisis & Clean Water Solutions
Learn how Outreach International's clean water initiatives are making a positive impact in Nicaragua’s water crisis.
Global Hand-Washing Day
Outreach International is thrilled to continue our partnership with Dial for another year to celebrate Global Handwashing Day.
One, Tube, Three
Tube wells: Explained! Community-led implementation for community-wide benefit: Explored! Sustainable solutions to previously persistent issues: Achieved!
Get Wells Soon | Clean Water in DR Congo
How do you bring clean water to 1,800 people in DR Congo? Start with some facilitation from Outreach, and stir in planning, teamwork, dedication and a generous gift from Dial in celebration of Global Handwashing Day 2016. Spoiler: It turns out, uh, well.
Staff Q&A: Mwila from Outreach Zambia
Join Mwila from Zambia as she guides us through her Staff Q&A, and enjoy the sense of empowerment that lingers long after you finish reading.
Stomping Out Poverty | Treadle Pumps In Zambia
Community members in Zambia step up to a pedal-powered solution to keeping crops quenched.
Congrats, Dennis Labayen!
Our dear friend and colleague, Dennis Labayen, retired from his official capacity with Outreach at the end of last week, after serving for more than 36 years.
Kalima’s Buffalo Brood
A buffalo-nanza of sustainable revenue streams for one of Outreach's favorite world-changers.
Malachite Artisans Going Green
For once, art and commerce make a great team.
Balance by Sharon Gutierrez
An entrepreneur endeavors to provide good, as well as gifts.
A Sparkling Debut | A Clear Water Source
Replacing dirty water with a clear solution.
Aim High, Sell ‘llo
How to save a life, using only your wits and a water buffalo.
From the CEO: A New Generation of Hope
Once more, with feeling.
M-bracing MPATs M-plementation
MPAT, or the Multi-Dimensional Poverty Assessment Tool, is the most comprehensive method to measure poverty's presence in a community, then quantify and assess the results of the efforts and methods employed as all parties work toward building a stronger, more prosperous future.
Calling All Cards: India Government ID Cards
Partners in India work hard for work-cards.
Service to Others, Service to All: Our Volunteers, in Their Own Words
Speaking from the heart!
Meet Luz Dania from Nicaragua
Luz Diana inspires us faster than we expected in our first Staff Q&A.
From the CEO: Stewardship, Partnership, Friendship
Growing closer to positive outcomes, and to each other.
Meet Michel from Congo
Michel brings wisdom to spare in another classic Outreach Staff Q&A.
Gary Logan Goes the Distance
Helping the human race, one marathon at a time.
Meet Rashmi from India
Country Coordinator Rashmi takes a moment out of saving the world to indulge us for her Staff Q&!
Hot Shots with Wayne Rowe
Show-and-tell with Outreach's intrepid shutterbug.
1,000* Words with Photographer Wayne Rowe
Outreach's go-to humanitarian photographer Wayne Rowe takes a closer look at his work, and a wider view of his subjects' lives,
Ready, Set, Good: Sushila Puts Theory into Practice in Nepal
Cross-cultural confabs confer concrete conclusions.
Looking Inward, Speaking Outreach: Our Teammates in Their Own Words
Insights from our teammates around the world, found in quiet moments between triumphs.
Outreach Says “ReLACS”
The journey to an organized, empowered future starts with a single, busted Suzuki.
Shatto Milk and Ronald MacDonald House
KC-based Shatto Milk Company has teamed up with Outreach International and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City for the dual deliciousness of selflessness and Chocolate Peanut Butter — two great tastes that taste great together.
Windermere’s Zoo-manitarian Prep Rally
Ready, Pet, Good.
Class, in Session: 12-Day School Fundraiser for High School Students
Los estudiantes ponen sus donaciones caritativas donde está su boca.
G. Scott Lacy’s Joyful Noises
A longtime Outreach donor's symphony of support.
Outreach Supporters Ink-ernational with Stan and Gina Zeamer
Inking locally, acting globally.
This is Not a Joke
Q: Knock-knock. A: Whos there Q: Outreach. A: Outreach Who Q: Outreach Nepal, where we just expanded to bring our unique, proven approach to resolving chronic poverty to a whole new part of the world.
The ABCs of HDFs in Nepal
Get aquainted with the 10 newest members of the Outreach family as they kick off our expansion into Nepal.
National Volunteer Week 2019
To celebrate National Volunteer Week, Outreach is proud to share a few examples of our volunteers' extraordinary grace and ingenuity. We couldn't do any of this without you! Literally! We're donor-supported!
Superflour, Superpower
Nourishment for all, from the ground-up.
Mama’s Family: Emeldah’s Story
Raising children, and lifting them higher.
Big Shoes: Filled by Veronica
Walking tall and going far with Veronica.
Kids Give Goats and Farm Animals
When a Sunday school class was challenged to buy goats for Outreach, they went above and beyond.
To Stir, with Love: Malawi Food Project
The most inspirational story ever written about tomatoes.
The Ripe Stuff
You say "tomato;" partners in the Philippines say "another sustainable symbol of community-led development."
The Busy Season: Working Animal Project
Doing more with more in Malawi.
Elements of Empowerment: Bolivia in 2018
Finding new horizons among Bolivia's harsh landscape.
Empowered: Outreach’s Longtime Supporters
Hindsight, foresight and insights from those who know us best.
Permanent Good: Outreach’s Legacy Circle
Planting ahead for future growth.
Mario Earns His Degree!
An Outreach facilitator enounters a high bar in his efforts to earn a law degree, and passes it.
A Rising Tide in Villa Corazon
Making streams come true in the Philippines.
Beginners’ Luck
Tess and Badet get some goats and bring order to their lives, your life, and the nature of the universe itself.
A Class Act in Haiti Schools
Finishing work and starting the party at a new school in Haiti.
Meet Arnoldo
At the end of this post, he gives the best advice we've ever heard.
Bolivia’s Snapshots Will Make You Clap Lots
New developments come into focus.
Meet Lumu
Reaching out and making new connections with a mobile literacy class in Nepal.
Fishing Lessons
Angling for more than metaphors in the Philippines.
Meet Evelyn
A small miracle grows up.
Lights, Cambodia, Action!
What we do before we do what we do in a new country.
Extending Our Reach, Expanding Our Horizons
Renovating a building, and creating structure to support the weight of an empowered world.
Ladies’ Might: The Empowered Women of Outreach
Some of the women and girls in communities around the world who are too brilliant and busy to wait for permission.
Remembering Lorna
Outreach International announced today that Lorna Labayen – physician, humanitarian and most recently Outreach International Senior Field Consultant – passed away at the age of 65 on April 10, 2012 in Independence, Missouri, after succumbing to cancer.